TEL: 028 71364080

Gatelodge

the

Holistic healing centre

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

Mindfulness also involves acceptance, meaning that we pay attention to our thoughts and feelings without judging them - without believing, for instance, that there is a 'right' or 'wrong' way to think or feel in a given moment. When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we are sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future.

This course is based on the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Programme (MBSR) developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, and the Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy Programme (MBCT) developed by Mark Williams, John Teasdale and Zindel Sigal.

About the MBSR/MBCT Programme:

The programme consists of 8 weekly sessions and a one-day retreat. A lot of emphasis is put on daily home practice which will range from 15-40 minutes - this is supported by a workbook and a set of CD's (provided). The sessions offer guided instruction on Seated Meditation, Walking Meditation, Yoga, the Body Scan and a 3-Minute Breating Space. As well as these formal techniques, participants are encouraged to practice informally and are given suggestions to help integrate an attitude of 'mindfulness into your daily lives.

Getting the most out of the course requires a significant amount of work! A certain dicipline is required, but balanced by the attitude of gentleness, self acceptance and self care which participants are encouraged to cultivate - the bottom line is, we are doing this to nourish and support our own energy and well-being!

The coursed is suitable for everybody. We all experience difficulty in our lives and Mindfulness teachs us valuable skills foir handling and managing difficult times. However, if you have recently experienced a significant upheval such as bereavement, family break up or diagnosis of a serious illness, it may be advisable to wait until you have regained a certain amount of stability... at times of crisis you may need more focused and individual support; also, because the course itself makes considerable demands on time and energy, you are in a better position to give it your best shot during 'normal' times.